Medically reviewed by Dr Usman Naeem, 26 Oct 2026.
Common causes
- Viral hepatitis: A and E are common in Pakistan, often from contaminated water; B and C can flare
- Medicines, herbal and “desi” remedies
- Alcohol
- Gallstones or a narrowing blocking the bile duct
- Gilbert’s syndrome, a harmless inherited condition with mild jaundice during illness or fasting
- Breakdown of red blood cells
- Less often, tumours of the pancreas or bile ducts
Clues to the cause
Dark urine, pale stools and itching suggest a blocked bile duct. Pain in the upper right belly with fever may mean an infected bile duct (cholangitis), which is an emergency.
Tests
- Liver function tests including bilirubin (total and direct), ALP and GGT
- Full blood count
- Hepatitis A, B, C and E tests
- Ultrasound
- Depending on results, MRCP, CT, or ERCP to remove stones or place a stent
What to avoid
- “Jaundice” home remedies and unproven herbs, which can harm the liver
- Stopping prescribed medicines on your own; tell your doctor about all of them
When to seek medical help urgently
- Fever with shivering and belly pain
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Bleeding or bruising easily
- Jaundice in pregnancy
- Jaundice with weight loss
In an emergency go to the nearest emergency department or call Rescue 1122. Do not wait for a WhatsApp reply.
Common questions
Is jaundice always hepatitis?
No. Hepatitis is a common cause, but gallstones, medicines, herbal remedies, Gilbert’s syndrome and other conditions can also cause it. That is why tests are needed.
Is a yellow colour in a newborn the same?
No. Newborn jaundice is different; please see a paediatrician.
Would you like Dr Usman Naeem to look at your case?
Consultations are available in clinic in Lahore or online. Message on WhatsApp 0332-0420421 or 0334-0421313, or call or SMS 0311-4444600. The clinic will confirm a day and time.
Ask about an online consultation on WhatsAppBook an AppointmentRelated videos by Dr Usman Naeem
From Dr Usman Naeem’s own YouTube channel (mostly Urdu). They load only when you press play.
آنکھیں پیلی (Yellow Eyes)؟ یرقان (Jaundice)، ہیپاٹائٹس یا کچھ اور؟
Watch on YouTubeجگر خراب ہونے کی 7 علامات (Liver Warning Signs) جنہیں نظرانداز نہ کریں
Watch on YouTube12 Signs of Liver Disease |What is Liver Cirrhosis and Its Warning Signs?|
Watch on YouTubeRelated condition guides
More articles
- High SGPT (ALT) in Your Blood Test: What It Means and What to Do Next
- Fatty Liver Diet: A Practical Guide with Everyday Pakistani Food
- Blood in Stool: Common Causes, When to Worry and When a Colonoscopy Is Needed
- Hepatitis B and C in Pakistan: Which Tests You Need and How Treatment Works
- Acidity and H. pylori: Symptoms, Testing and When to See a Doctor
- When Do You Need an Endoscopy? Reasons, Preparation and What to Expect
- Cirrhosis Diet: What to Eat and What to Avoid
- Water in the Belly (Ascites): Causes, Tests and Care
Sources and further reading
General information only, not personal medical advice. Do not start or stop medicines because of this article. See the medical disclaimer.